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Empower Member Brenda Flank on Black History Month

It was Black History ‘week’ when I was growing up in the late sixties, early seventies. I thought Black History ‘week’ was supposed to be a celebration of our American history and heritage emphasizing the contributions blacks have made to the greatness of our country.

But for me, it was not a time of celebration because of the anger associated with radical groups like the Black Panthers and others.

I didn’t realize that for a while because I was down with the struggle.

But, when these groups talked about going back to Africa, that was a ‘wait a minute’ moment for me.

This is my country, my heritage, my life and my family was right here in America. Why would I want to go back to Africa?

So, I’ve not ‘celebrated’ black history ‘week or month’ since I left high school in 1973.

I believe the reason for starting black history week was very important at the time because it raised awareness of the contributions of Black Americans.

I celebrate every day the history and contributions of all Americans that make our country what it is today.

I believe it’s important to know our history not as blacks, but as Americans.

We should no longer segregate ourselves from America and our history because we will never move beyond the past or ever see clearly the promise of a brighter future.

Today, black history is American history and should be treated as such.

So, let’s celebrate year-round the greatness of America and the blessings of being an American.

Hello Patriots! On February 26 - 28, FreedomWorks launched a series of Empower townhall events here in North Carolina featuring Rev. C.L. Bryant. These townhalls are an opportunity to have a frank discussion about topics like entrepreneurship, criminal justice reform, school choice, financial literacy, and growing the economy in urban communities. You can read more about the tour here.

Frances Ellen Watkins Harper was born in Baltimore, Maryland, to free parents and at the age of three, she became an orphan upon the death of her mother. Her aunt and uncle on her maternal side of the family adopted her and raised her until the age of thirteen.

Black History Month draws focus on the sacrifices of leaders and achievements that have uplifted the black community over decades and centuries. It is also a reminder of the challenges the black community has endured over that period and some that still exists.

In view of the televised, Black atrocities in Ferguson, Missouri, Chicago, Illinois, Detroit, Michigan, and other American cities, many people might find it surprising to discover that, the greatness of today’s America has much to do with Black American achievements and inventions.